When it comes to ordinal numbers, it is crucial to get the spelling and usage correct. After all, you wouldn’t want to lose marks on your IELTS exam or confuse your readers. So, the question at hand is whether we should write “76st” or “76th” – and I’m here to give you the correct answer.
The correct form is “76th.” This is because ordinal numbers are formed by adding “-th” to the cardinal numbers, and the number “76” is no exception. The “-st” ending is reserved for the numbers 1, 21, 31, and so on. For all other numbers, we use “-th” to indicate their ordinal nature.
Let’s break it down further with some examples to illustrate this point. Consider the numbers 1, 21, and 76. We wouldn’t say “1stst,” “21stst,” or “76st.” Instead, we say “1st,” “21st,” and “76th.” This consistency helps in maintaining clarity and ensuring that the correct ordinal position is conveyed.
For example, if we were discussing the position of a student in a race, we might say, “He finished in the 76th place.” Here, “76th” clearly indicates that the student finished in the position after the 75th participant. On the other hand, if we were to write “76st,” it would confuse the reader and make the sentence illogical.
Let’s take another example involving dates. If I were to tell you that my birthday is on the 21st of March, it would make perfect sense. However, if I were to say my birthday is on the 21stst, it would be grammatically incorrect and confusing. By using “21st,” I am accurately conveying the day of the month on which my birthday falls.
It’s important to note that these rules apply to all ordinal numbers beyond “1.” For instance, we say “22nd,” “33rd,” “44th,” and so on. The pattern is clear – we use “-th” for all ordinal numbers except for those ending in “1.”
In conclusion, the correct ordinal form of “76” is “76th.” As a language and grammar expert, I urge you to use this form to ensure clarity and accuracy in your writing. Remember, consistency is key when it comes to ordinal numbers. So, whether you’re discussing a race, a birthday, or any other ordinal position, be sure to use “76th” and avoid the incorrect form of “76st.”